Description

The Bible promotes a system of living that involves some marital absolutes like…

• God hates divorce (see Malachi 2.16)
• Except for sexual infidelity, divorce is not an option (Matthew 19.6, 9)
• Sex outside of marriage is against God’s law (Hebrew 13.4)
• It’s wrong to secretly desire another man’s wife (Exodus 20.17)
• Do not have sex with a person married to another (Luke 18.20)
• Stay away from pornography (Matthew 5.27-28)
• A woman should respect her husband (Ephesians 5.33)
• A man must love his wife and lay his life down for her (Colossians 3.19)

Some counselors appear to know how to kindly listen intently and then say with ease, “Thank you for sharing” or inquire, “How does that make you feel?” It's hard to imagine a modern therapist, pastor, or even a friend taking sides or making a stand with words like these: “That’s just wrong. Stop it.”

The Moabites rightly asked of God, “Give us advice, make a decision...” (Isaiah 16.3). God gave Moses Ten Commandments, not Ten Suggestions. Occasionally, He expects us to remind ourselves of His standards. Offenders need straight talk. Victims need validation and vindication. Shepherds, pastors, Christian counselors or leaders, may even have to “give.. advice” and “make a decision.” When this is called for, anything less is a cop-out.